HOUSTON, Aug. 12 (UPI) -- Former Enron Corp. Chairman Ken Lay had requested a trial in September on federal charges, but he won't get it.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake said Wednesday the former Enron executive deserves a speedy trial, but it's too early to schedule one, The Houston Chronicle reported.
The government still has weeks to respond to Lay's request for a speedy trial, which was filed Monday.
Lake did not set a trial date for Lay, former Chief Executive Officer Jeff Skilling,or former top accountant Rick Causey during the pre-trial hearing. He ask for more arguments on their requests for separate trials.
Causey and Skilling each face 35 or more counts of conspiracy, fraud and insider trading in a scheme to manipulate earnings. Lay faces seven charges of fraud and conspiracy at Enron and four of fraud in his personal banking.
Lay and his attorney Mike Ramsey told reporters after the hearing prosecutors should be ready for trial now.
The government wants one trial for all three defendants in March of next year.
